Brenden Aaronson left a major mark in his first EFL Championship start of the 2024-25 season.
Aaronson scored the winning goal in Leeds United’s 2-0 road victory over Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night at Hillsborough. It marked Aaronson’s second goal of the campaign and his fourth overall in Leeds United colors.
“It feels really good, I am happy with the team, happy with the win, and the all-around performance I thought was good,” Aaronson said postmatch. “It’s always good to get a goal, especially in the position that I play in. You want to create and score goals so tonight was really good for me.
“I’m a guy that is always going to work for the team most of all, I’m going to press without the ball but with the ball I want to score goals, get assists, that is the biggest thing for me this season by helping the team,” he added.
After overcoming early pressure from the host Owls, Leeds United struck first in the 28th minute. Daniel James’ flicked pass allowed the Lilywhites to counter upfield before Aaronson raced into the box and slotted home a loose ball.
Mateo Joseph was tackled in the box but Aaronson finished up the play with a confident left-footed strike.
Daniel James doubled Leeds United’s lead early in the second half after Joseph’s through ball pass allowed the Welsh winger to race in towards goal. James’ chipped effort snuck in the bottom corner for a 2-0 Leeds advantage and one they wouldn’t let slip away on the road.
Leeds United would claim their first road win of the new season as Sheffield United suffered its second-straight defeat.
Aaronson, who was subbed off before the final whistle, was applauded by the traveling support for his hardworking shift in midfield. After spending last season away on loan in Germany, the 24-year-old has been one of the bright spots through the opening three weeks this summer.
“It was tough coming back, there were a lot of nerves, and I was unsure at times, but I couldn’t have asked for the reception that I have gotten,” Aaronson said. “The guys in the team have welcomed me back and I think they [the fans] know that I am going to give everything I have for the team.”
“He had an unbelievable work rate against the ball, he was flexible in the midfield and obviously the goal was important for him,” manager Daniel Farke said about Aaronson. “He started the season a bit tough because he arrived during the middle of preseason but it’s been an excellent start for him so well done for Brenden.”
The Lilywhites next host Hull City at Elland Road on August 31 in its final match before the September international window.